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Teething jewelry poses choking, strangulation risks
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The FDA has advised against the use of teething bracelets, necklaces and other forms of jewelry, according to a press release issued by the agency. These jewelry pieces are intended to reduce teething pain among infants and provide sensory stimulation for those with special needs, including autism and ADHD.
“We know that teething necklaces and jewelry products have become increasingly popular among parents and caregivers who want to provide relief for children’s teething pain and sensory stimulation for children with special needs,” FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, MD, said in a press release. “We are concerned about the risks we have observed with these products and want parents to be aware that teething jewelry puts children, including those with special needs, at risk of serious injury and death.”
The agency received reports of injury and death related to these products, including a 7-month-old infant who choked on a bracelet’s wooden beads while under parental supervision. One 18-month-old infant died from strangulation as a result of napping with an amber necklace.
Manufacturers of amber necklaces have promoted amber’s ability to reduce inflammation and relieve pain through succinic acid that is released in the user’s bloodstream in unknown quantities by teething. The FDA has not evaluated these claims for safety or efficacy.
“Consumers should consider following the AAP’s recommendations of alternative ways for treating teething pain, such as rubbing inflamed gums with a clean finger or using a teething ring made of firm rubber,” Gottlieb said. “Given the breadth of the market for these teething necklaces and jewelry, we are sharing this important safety information directly to consumers in order to help prevent injuries in infants and kids.” – by Katherine Bortz
Disclosure: Gottlieb reports no relevant financial disclosures.